Genxl

The problem we aim to solve lies in the nexus of gender, socio-economic disparities, and STEM education. Specifically, it addresses the grave underrepresentation of girls, particularly from underprivileged backgrounds, in STEM careers. This issue is deeply rooted in structural inequalities and societal norms that restrict their exposure to and engagement in STEM from an early age. Despite women making up nearly half of the U.S. workforce, they constitute only 28% of the science and engineering workforce, a figure that drops to an alarming 11.5% for minority women (NSF, 2022). In underserved communities, these numbers are even starker due to limited access to educational opportunities and resources.

In these disadvantaged communities, the familiar roles often modeled for girls include service-sector jobs, childcare, or even unemployment. Viable and fulfilling career paths such as engineering or medicine are often perceived as unattainable or inappropriate due to prevailing stereotypes. This narrative often persists unchecked due to the lack of successful female role models in STEM within their environment. The education system further exacerbates this problem. Girls in underprivileged communities often face educational gaps in STEM subjects, making them less prepared for and thus less likely to pursue STEM-related higher education. National data shows that while 75% of all U.S. high school graduates do not meet the proficiency standards in mathematics, the percentage increases to 88% for students from underprivileged communities (National Assessment of Educational Progress, 2018). This highlights the pressing need for quality STEM education in these communities. Furthermore, the problem extends beyond the mere provision of STEM education. The design and approach of existing educational technology often fail to resonate with girls from disadvantaged backgrounds. Current educational technologies focus primarily on testing knowledge rather than fostering understanding and learning. They often assume prior knowledge that these girls might not have and offer feedback only on correctness, which can discourage learning. Moreover, these applications often miss the mark when it comes to connecting with students on a personal level. They usually tell the girls 'what' to learn but not 'why' it matters - why it matters to them, their interests, their families, and their communities.  This lack of context and relevance, coupled with the absence of mentors who look like them and understand their struggles, perpetuates the perception of STEM as exclusive and unwelcoming. Empowering underprivileged women with leadership skills fosters long-term systemic change. When women have equal access to leadership positions, they can influence policies, challenge inequalities, and create a more equitable society. This has a ripple effect, benefiting future generations and creating a more inclusive and just world. In essence, the specific problem we are addressing is the deep-rooted gender and socio-economic disparities in STEM fields. We aim to tackle this by improving access to quality STEM education for girls from underprivileged communities, providing them with female role models in STEM, and making learning more engaging and relevant to their lives.

Genxl's solution is a comprehensive, multi-pronged approach to bridging the gender gap in STEM education and empowering students from all backgrounds. Our approach is founded on three core elements: an interactive curriculum, the annual Project Canary competition, and a uniquely devised mentorship program.

The cornerstone of our solution is our curriculum, designed to pique interest and foster a deep understanding of STEM subjects. Delivered through an intuitive online platform, our curriculum offers a dynamic and immersive learning experience that brings STEM concepts to life. This online setup not only allows us to reach students globally but also facilitates continuous adaptation to stay attuned to evolving educational needs and technology advancements.

Our speaker series further enriches this learning experience by connecting students with established professionals in STEM fields. These inspiring individuals share their personal journeys, discuss their work, and provide valuable insights into the practical application of STEM concepts. This not only broadens students' understanding of potential career paths but also addresses the lack of female role models in STEM, offering students relatable figures to look up to and learn from.

One of our unique offerings is ‘Project Canary’, an annual ideathon where students propose solutions to one of the UNSDG goals. This initiative motivates students to think critically and creatively about real-world problems and allows them to become active participants in shaping their communities. By providing seed funding and mentorship, we encourage the practical application of their ideas, bridging the gap between theory and practice that often exists in traditional education. Currently, Genxl has been able to create meaningful change through the little seed funding ($500) we are able to provide, however, we are certain increased funding will lead to even more significant impacts. CLA ensures school accessibility for students with disabilities. We promote inclusivity through physical ramps and petition for crosswalks. Additionally, our interactive courses combine online learning with practical skills. We operate globally, understanding local challenges through our carefully selected team of chapter leads in 30 international sectors. Our comprehensive model fosters learning, creativity, inclusivity, & practical skills.

Lastly, our mentorship program forms an integral part of our solution, acting on our belief that learning extends beyond academic instruction. We pair students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, encouraging privileged students to learn alongside those from underprivileged communities. This peer-to-peer learning approach fosters mutual understanding and growth, breaking down societal barriers and nurturing a more inclusive learning community. This unique partnership allows privileged students to gain a broader worldview and empathetic understanding, while their underprivileged counterparts benefit from shared resources and opportunities.

In essence, Genxl's solution is a holistic approach to STEM education that goes beyond traditional teaching methods. By integrating dynamic learning, practical application, mentorship, and community engagement, we strive to create an inclusive, empowering, and transformative educational experience for all students, regardless of their background. This comprehensive approach is our answer to closing the gender gap in STEM and fostering a more diverse and inclusive future in these fields.

Genxl's solution serves young, underprivileged students worldwide and high school mentors from more privileged backgrounds. By providing STEM classes, mentorship, and innovative opportunities, we're directly improving the lives of these students and young mentors, particularly in areas where educational resources are limited. Our target population is two-fold. Firstly, we serve underprivileged students, predominantly aged between 6 to 18 years, from refugee camps, Title 1 schools, and schools in developing countries. These students often lack access to quality education and resources, especially in STEM fields. Secondly, we engage high school students from more affluent backgrounds as teachers and mentors, offering them a valuable opportunity to develop leadership and teaching skills. To understand their needs, we actively engage with these communities, conducting surveys, and interviews, and holding regular check-in meetings. Our curriculum is continuously refined based on feedback, ensuring it remains relevant and beneficial. In Morocco, where severe gender disparities exist like child marriage, our STEM classes offer girls an alternative path, equipping them with skills that can potentially change their futures. Similarly, in Eswatini, faced with issues of property inequality and high rates of HIV/AIDS, our program aims to empower girls with STEM education, leading to potential financial independence and an increased capacity to address the problems they encounter. For example, we have Fatima, a 15-year-old girl from Morocco, who, through our coding classes, developed an app aimed at educating her peers about the legal rights of children, particularly focusing on child marriage. In Eswatini, there's Thandi, a 14-year-old participant who created a website providing information and resources about HIV/AIDS prevention and care in her local dialect. By reaching out to 35,000 students across 30+ countries, we're making a meaningful impact in diverse, underprivileged communities worldwide. Our model also promotes cross-cultural exchanges, as students and mentors from different parts of the world interact, learn, and grow together, fostering global understanding and solidarity.

Genxl is profoundly connected to the problem we aim to solve, largely due to our lived experiences. Both founders, currently high school sophomores are Asian females. They have felt the weight of stereotypes about being females in a model minority and the constraints they place on the careers we can envision for ourselves. Being told what we are capable of and who we are, is unfortunately a shared experience among women across the globe. We sought to build a platform that could help dismantle these barriers and open up new possibilities for underprivileged young women facing challenges on similar wavelengths as ourselves. Our youthfulness and feminity are not a limitation, but a strength that allows us to deeply resonate with our users, understand their realities and relate to their aspirations and fears. Our connection to the communities we serve extends beyond our personal experiences. We have actively sought to understand the needs of underprivileged students through constant and open dialogue. We have held community forums, conducted surveys, and sought input directly from the users of our platform. We believe in creating solutions for our community, not just for them, and this principle guides all our design and implementation processes. We specifically recruit highly talented individuals with a passion to lead each of our chapters. Their localization is essential to the mission we have to better understand our students in each area we find ourselves enriching. Our user base comprises largely of underprivileged females who represent more than 80% of our users. We have seen how societal stereotypes are amplified within underprivileged communities. This often leads to women being sidelined into unsustainable careers or underemployment. Thus, our solution has been designed to counteract these stereotypes and encourage girls to envision themselves in successful STEM careers. We are representative of the communities we serve, and we believe in the potential of every student, regardless of their socio-economic background, to thrive in STEM fields. We also understand the specific barriers they face, and our solution is designed to address these in the most impactful way possible. Through our courses specifically, we adapt classrooms by adjusting meeting times, material, and technology to better adapt to the life of our students. Our volunteers all undergo intensive training that ensures they are all equipped to handle difficult home life situations. Project Canary is a pitch competition where youth from various backgrounds present their solutions to real-world problems. This gives us first-hand insights into the kind of challenges our users face and the innovative solutions they can come up with when given the right platform. This deep understanding of the problem landscape, the empathy we share with our users, and our innovative spirit make us well-positioned to deliver our solution effectively. We believe that by empowering underprivileged students with exposure to successful STEM career paths, we can inspire a generation of brilliant problem-solvers and innovators who might have otherwise been overlooked. Our direct mentorship with the program uplifts women to grow into leadership comfortably.

33,500+ students taught both in person and remotely via video conferencing. Additionally, we have 2000+ vetted instructors teaching these classes. 

Genxl is applying because we recognize the potential of this program to help us scale our impact, and break down barriers while amplifying our efforts to drive gender equity in STEM. While we have already achieved significant progress, we face challenges that require specific expertise, strategic partnerships, and resources to overcome. Financially, one of our key challenges is securing consistent funding to sustain and expand our operations. With a majority of our services offered for free to underprivileged students, we need to build more robust revenue streams and strategic partnerships to ensure our sustainability. However, the invaluable access to a network of resource partners across industries and sectors provided by the program would be immensely important. We have been able to achieve immense success in reaching out to students and gaining traction on the very little funding we have had so far ($500). Therefore, we are certain that with our demonstrated potential we will be able to expand our programs in a much larger way. We will be able to not only help more than just one selected young woman each year but we will be able to increase the monetary support allocated for each winner so that they can expand the means. Technically, we would like to enhance our online learning platform to accommodate our growing student population better, incorporate innovative teaching methodologies, and effectively monitor and evaluate our impact. We hope that Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures can help us gain the necessary technical expertise and resources to achieve this goal especially given we must find secure connections with our international women. Culturally, one of the main barriers we encounter is overcoming societal norms and biases that discourage girls from pursuing STEM. The learning and development modules along with leadership coaching provided by the program, would be instrumental in enabling us to develop more effective strategies for addressing these cultural barriers. From a market perspective, we need to improve our brand visibility and outreach efforts to reach more students who can benefit from our services. We believe that the peer-to-peer network and the community of practice provided by the program would be an excellent platform for us to learn from other organizations, share our experiences, and collaborate on common goals. Ultimately, our primary goal in applying to this challenge is not just to raise funds, we see immense value in the resources, expertise, and network that the program offers. Provided training opportunities, workshops, or professional development programs for incoming volunteers will be pertinent to our growth. This can enhance their skills and knowledge, enabling them to deliver high-quality STEM education and support. We are excited about the opportunity to learn, grow, and collaborate with like-minded organizations and individuals committed to driving gender equity in STEM. We believe that with the support of Solve and Tiger Global Impact Ventures, we can accelerate our impact, overcome the barriers we face, and bring us one step closer to our vision of an inclusive and equitable STEM future for all.

I was 14 years old when I realized thousands of kids like me had no access to education. When the pandemic hit, I saw how the educational gap was widening due to the lack of access to proper education. I grew deeply concerned about how the pandemic was affecting students' learning and decided to take action. With a strong passion for education, I founded Genxl, a 501c(3) certified nonprofit organization offering much-needed STEM education for young students in society. Since then, it has been my mission to bridge together the educational gap that formed after COVID-19 by empowering students across the globe. Especially after the pandemic closed down, for schools across the globe, in-depth STEM courses aren't offered widely to young kids, especially underprivileged ones. Genxl was founded on the belief that it is necessary for young children to be exposed to STEM concepts so that they can discover and explore their passions at an early stage in life. Genxl provides personal and societal development for all children. It empowers them to learn and grow, and it enables them to make informed decisions that can positively impact their lives and those around them. Genxl provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies they need to succeed in life. We open up opportunities for higher-paying jobs, better health, and improved overall well-being. Our community fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, which are essential skills for success in the modern world. All of our offerings come with zero cost for every child. 

Genxl provides a range of services, including tutoring, mentorship, and access to educational resources. Genxl offers courses anywhere from Python programming and Biology all the way to Debate: The Art of Persuasion and the Basics of a Business Pitch. We host webinars and workshops to help students develop their skills and achieve their academic goals. Genxl operates on a peer-to-peer system where older recruited volunteers to support younger students. As of today, we have over 2,000 international instructors that come together to teach our students. With help from our volunteers, I am able to reach the minds of children in every corner of the world. Now at just 16 years old, I was able to scale this project and expand into multiple new endeavors. After over two years of dedicated work, Genxl has amassed over 33,500 students of all races, gender identities, and socio-economic statuses. Genxl quickly gained momentum, and within a few months, I established 30 international and national chapters, each with a team of dedicated volunteers.

I recognize that in order to create the largest impact for our children, I must expand Genxl in new ways that offer more than just courses. That is why I started an initiative called Project Canary. Through Project Canary, I empower young children from grades 5-8 to pursue their own passions by tackling a UN SDG. This initiative runs annually as each year I select a student who I believe has shown exceptional potential and I offer close guidance and mentorship to help them pursue this mission. I garnered roughly $500 in grant money from Danny's Place Youth Services in order to enable these young children. In 2022, a young student decided to help promote drug awareness in his local community through advocacy. She is from a region where many individuals struggle with drug/ substance abuse and wanted to create an educational resource for young adults to turn to. Thus, she began “Change Day” which exists as a subsidiary under Genxl. Through close mentorship, she has built a website that hosts information for teenagers to use as a resource. Additionally, she has hosted multiple events with 50-100 attendees where she and I spoke to large crowds of young people looking for more education in regard to substance. 

This year, for 2023 we are beginning to work on a project with a young girl from our community called Civil Liberties Action (CLA). Through this initiative, we plan to create change in our community both at the regional/state and national levels. Although this effort began in March of this year, I have already helped my mentee raise $300 to build a ramp for disabled students at a local public school to help them receive a fair educational experience. It is of utmost importance that I tackle pressing issues in the community as well. Just recently, an 8th grader in our town was hit by a car as he was crossing the road, badly injured, he was sent into a coma for months. Sadly, this is not the first nor only time a motor vehicle has taken the lives of a member of our community. In almost every instance that this has happened, the victim had the right of way. I immediately took action. I am already talking to my town’s director of equity about building a crosswalk near a busy junction in my town. These efforts not only create necessary change but also sets an example of youth activism for others around us. On a much larger scale, we are also currently drafting bills to send as proposals to Congress. So far, I have drafted a bill with my mentee about adjusting the handling of student loans to help alleviate student debt. 

I strive to bring together people from different backgrounds to work towards a common goal. My organization is composed of volunteers from around the world, who share a passion for education and helping others. I am building a strong community that is committed to making a difference in the lives of students. My work has made a significant impact on the lives of over 33,500 students around the world and counting, empowering them to achieve more than they believe they are capable of. The change that I am making in young children will soon be the change we see in adults of the future. Because of this, supporting children is an absolute priority of mine.

At Genxl we recognize the critical importance of equipping young minds with the skills and resources necessary to thrive in the digital age. In addition to our comprehensive STEM curriculum, we have developed a unique program specifically designed to empower young girls, elevating one exceptional participant each year through a mentorship journey that nurtures her entrepreneurial skills. We aim to foster the next generation of confident, resilient, and resourceful female leaders. Our nonprofit stands at the forefront of innovative STEM education. Through a carefully crafted curriculum, we introduce underserved children to the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Our courses are designed to be hands-on, interactive, and inclusive, ensuring that all participants feel empowered to explore their interests and potential in STEM fields. By incorporating project-based learning, real-world applications, and cutting-edge technology, we inspire curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among our students. One of our flagship programs, Project Canary represents a significant milestone in our commitment to empowering young girls. Each year, a chosen girl is paired with successful women entrepreneurs who serve as mentors, guiding her through a tailored curriculum that combines entrepreneurship education, mentorship sessions, and hands-on experiences. Project Canary focuses on fostering entrepreneurial skills and mindsets, equipping girls with the tools they need to navigate the business world with confidence. The curriculum covers various topics, including ideation, market research, business planning, financial literacy, and marketing strategies. Through workshops, interactive sessions, and practical assignments, the mentee gains a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship while honing her leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. Throughout the mentorship program, she receives ongoing support, encouragement, and guidance from her mentor. The mentorship relationship serves as a source of inspiration, motivation, and empowerment, empowering the mentee to embrace her potential and seize opportunities. This one-on-one support not only enhances the mentee's entrepreneurial skills but also cultivates her self-belief, resilience, and determination. The impact of our STEM education and entrepreneurship mentorship programs extends far beyond the individual participants. By empowering young girls with entrepreneurial skills, we aim to break down barriers and challenge gender stereotypes in the business world. As these girls grow into successful entrepreneurs and leaders, they become role models for their peers and inspire future generations of female entrepreneurs. Moreover, our approach to combining STEM education and entrepreneurship mentorship serves as a catalyst for broader positive impacts in the education and nonprofit sectors. By demonstrating the value of interdisciplinary learning and emphasizing the importance of nurturing holistic skill sets, we inspire other organizations to adopt similar approaches. Through our integrated STEM education and entrepreneurship mentorship programs, we are poised to transform the market by preparing young individuals for the future of work and entrepreneurship. By equipping children from underserved backgrounds with STEM skills, digital literacy, and an entrepreneurial mindset, we bridge the opportunity gap and open doors to previously inaccessible career paths. As these young individuals enter the job market, they bring diverse perspectives, innovative ideas, and the resilience necessary to navigate an evolving economy.

Our impact goals at Genxl revolve around providing transformative opportunities and resources to underserved students, with a specific focus on reaching over 1,000 Title I schools across the United States through our Moonshot 1000 goal. This program will be designed to support the unique learning needs of low-income students as they take their first steps in their journey in computer science and technology. To achieve these impact goals, we have developed a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. Central to our strategy is the collaboration with our Genxl chapter leaders, who are located throughout the country. These dedicated individuals serve as local ambassadors, working closely with educational centers in their communities to provide comprehensive support. They offer professional development opportunities for teachers, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively teach computer science and technology concepts. By empowering educators, we ensure that students receive high-quality instruction and guidance. In addition to professional development, our chapter leaders facilitate access to technology resources, ensuring that students in Title I schools have the tools they need to fully engage in the learning process. We understand that technology can be a barrier for low-income students, so we work tirelessly to bridge this gap by providing access to computers, software, and other necessary equipment. By removing these barriers, we create a level playing field where all students can explore and excel in the field of computer science. 

Our curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics, including coding, robotics, artificial intelligence, and data analysis, providing a comprehensive foundation for students to explore various aspects of technology. To achieve our impact goals, we will collaborate with various stakeholders, including school administrators, teachers, parents, and community leaders. By building strong partnerships, we can effectively reach and support a large number of Title I schools. Our Genxl chapter leaders will play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining these partnerships, as they have deep connections within their local communities. These partnerships enable us to understand the unique needs and challenges faced by each school, allowing us to tailor our support and resources accordingly. Furthermore, we recognize the power of technology in extending our reach and impact. Through online platforms, virtual resources, and remote learning opportunities, we can overcome geographical barriers and provide support to schools located in remote areas. This approach allows us to scale our efforts and make a meaningful impact on a larger scale. By leveraging technology, we ensure that all students, regardless of their location, have access to high-quality computer science education and resources. We believe that by equipping them with the necessary resources, knowledge, and skills, we can help bridge the opportunity gap and open doors to future success. By empowering these students and expanding their horizons, we are not only transforming their lives but also creating a more equitable and inclusive society. We envision a generation of diverse and talented individuals who are equipped with the skills and confidence to thrive in the digital age.

In assessing our progress towards our impact goals, we implement a meticulous data collection and review process to quantify the transformative effect of our programs. We are committed to both transparency and continuous improvement and hence, our monitoring and evaluation processes are designed to provide insights into our performance and the value we deliver.

Micro-level Progress Indicators:

Program Participation Metrics: We monitor the number of students engaged in our programs and high school mentors involved. We break this data down by gender, ethnicity, socioeconomic background, and educational level to ensure we're reaching our target demographics and to inform future strategic outreach efforts.

Program Completion Rates: We track the percentage of students who complete our programs, dissecting these rates by program type and demographic data. This helps us identify which programs are most effective and where we might need to make adjustments.

Feedback Collection: We engage in regular, structured collection of participant feedback through surveys and interviews. This direct feedback from students and mentors enables us to gauge satisfaction and identify areas for improvement.

Macro-level Progress Indicators:

Long-Term Student Outcomes: We are developing systems to gather longitudinal data on student outcomes post-program participation. This includes tracking metrics such as high school graduation rates, college attendance and majors, and employment data. We plan to conduct regular follow-ups with our alumni to maintain connections and offer assistance as needed, such as providing letters of reference.

Project Canary Participation: We record the number of student projects submitted for our Project Canary pitch competition and track the progress of these projects beyond the competition. This helps us measure the real-world impact of our efforts to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among young people.

Partner Engagement Metrics: We also track our progress in terms of the number of organizations partnering with us, as well as the funding they contribute to our programs. This is key for gauging the sustainability and growth potential of our initiatives.

We've designed an intuitive and comprehensive dashboard to compile these metrics, facilitating ease of analysis and dissemination among our team. Our team lead curates a monthly report using this data, which is shared with our staff, mentors, and mentees, and also published on our organization's website for full transparency.

This extensive data collection process enables us to remain accountable to our mission and our participants, continually assess the efficacy of our programs, and make data-driven decisions for future initiatives.

At Genxl, we believe in the transformative power of education, mentorship, and hands-on learning experiences. Our theory of change outlines the logical progression from our program activities to the long-term impact we aim to create, especially in the lives of underprivileged children around the world.

Problem:

Many underprivileged children, particularly in developing countries, lack access to quality STEM education and mentorship.

Many high school students in privileged circumstances lack opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations that create meaningful social impact.

There's a large gender and income-based disparity in STEM fields, which is more prominent in certain developing countries due to societal and cultural barriers.

Inputs:

• Skilled and dedicated high school mentors
• Access to online and physical teaching platforms
• Training resources and materials for both mentors and students
• Partnerships with local and international organizations
• Activities:
• Recruiting high school mentors and students
• Training mentors to effectively teach and inspire students
• Hosting online and in-person STEM classes
• Organizing project competitions to foster innovation and entrepreneurship
• Engaging professional speakers to inspire and educate our community

Outputs:

• Well-trained mentors capable of inspiring and teaching students
• Increased access to quality STEM education for underprivileged students
• An established platform for students to innovate and showcase their abilities

Short-term outcomes:

• Enhanced STEM knowledge and interest among students
• Increased teaching and leadership skills among high school mentors
• Increased awareness about various professional pathways within STEM

Medium-term outcomes:

• Increased high school graduation rates and college attendance among our students
• More students pursuing STEM majors and careers
• High school mentors developing a lifelong commitment to social impact

Long-term outcomes:

• More equitable representation in STEM fields, especially for girls and women
• Increased economic opportunities for individuals and communities we serve (33k students reached)
• Cultivation of a generation of socially conscious leaders and innovators

We substantiate these linkages with evidence from various sources such as third-party research, our own impact evaluations, and direct feedback from our students and mentors. Research supports the effectiveness of mentorship and project-based learning in inspiring interest in STEM and developing essential skills. Our continuous data collection and evaluation processes will serve as a feedback mechanism to inform and optimize our strategies, thereby ensuring that we remain on course toward achieving our long-term impact goals.

All of our operations are online and thus require a computer and technology devices. Below are lists of specific features required for both volunteers and students. 

Students:

• Google Classroom to Acess Materials
• Google Docs, Drive, Slides, and Sheets for accessing and completing work assignments.
• Zoom for meetings.
• Wolfram Premium Subscription as a tool/assistant for mathematical-based questions 
• Gmail for communication
• Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter & Our Website. 

Volunteers:

• Slack - for communication between volunteers 
• Discord for communication among interns
• Gmail for communication
• Social Media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter & Our Website.

2000+ Volunteers (Part Time)

40+ Chapter Leads (Part Time)

4 Core Leadership (Part Time)

2 Executive Presidents (Full Time)

6 Directors (Full Time)

2 years as of June 21st 2023

At Genxl, we wholeheartedly embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion as core principles that guide our mission and shape our approach. We recognize the value of creating an inclusive environment that celebrates the unique attributes and backgrounds of individuals. Our commitment to DEI is reflected not only in the diversity of our leadership team but also in our ongoing efforts to enhance representation and dismantle systemic barriers in our organization. In alignment with MIT Solve's dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we strive to foster equitable environments that promote access to opportunities and value the contributions of all members of our community.

Our leadership team is a true reflection of the diverse communities we serve. Comprising individuals from various backgrounds, our team exemplifies the rich tapestry of social, cultural, and identity-based attributes within our organization. With a remarkable 80% female representation, we actively seek to empower women, recognizing their invaluable contributions and resilience. Especially our executive roles consist of 12 members where 92% are women and all are people of color. 

Some of the actions we have taken to achieve DEI include outreach and partnerships. We have established partnerships with local schools, community organizations, and grassroots initiatives in impoverished areas. These collaborations enable us to extend our reach, connect with underprivileged students, and provide them with valuable resources and support. Additionally, with our chapter expansion, we have strategically expanded our organization to encompass 40 chapters across various regions. By establishing chapters in impoverished areas, we ensure that our services are accessible and tailored to meet the specific needs of each community. We have developed mentorship programs that connect underprivileged students with successful professionals who share similar backgrounds. Through mentorship, we aim to provide guidance, inspiration, and the necessary skills to empower students to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. Lastly, we regularly conduct diversity and inclusion training sessions for our staff, volunteers, and chapter members. These sessions foster a deeper understanding of DEI principles, promote empathy, and equip our team with the tools to create inclusive environments where all members feel welcomed, respected, supported, and valued.

We are unwavering in our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We believe that every individual, regardless of their background, deserves equal access to opportunities and resources. By actively working to diversify our leadership team, expanding our presence in impoverished areas, and implementing various initiatives to empower underprivileged students, we are actively striving to create a more equitable and inclusive society. We remain steadfast in our dedication to promoting DEI principles and embracing the transformative power of diversity in all aspects of our nonprofit's work.

Or non-profit organization, dedicated to empowering girls facing societal issues globally through STEM education, follows a business model that combines social impact and sustainable revenue generation. Our key customers are the girls themselves, who benefit from our educational courses, and our beneficiaries are the communities and societies they belong to. We provide a range of products and services to support the educational journey of these girls. Our core offering is a comprehensive STEM curriculum that introduces girls to the exciting world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The courses are designed to be hands-on, interactive, and inclusive, ensuring that all participants feel empowered to explore their interests and potential in STEM fields. In addition to the foundational STEM curriculum, we have developed a flagship program that uplifts women through mentorship and teaches them entrepreneurship. Project Canary is specifically designed to provide mentorship and guidance to girls as they develop their entrepreneurial skills. Each year, we select exceptional participants to embark on a transformative mentorship journey. Through Project Canary, the chosen girls are paired with successful women entrepreneurs who serve as mentors, guiding them through a tailored curriculum that combines entrepreneurship education, mentorship sessions, and hands-on experiences. The program covers various topics, including ideation, market research, business planning, financial literacy, and marketing strategies. Through workshops, interactive sessions, and practical assignments, the mentees gain a comprehensive understanding of entrepreneurship while honing their leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities. To deliver our products and services, we employ a multi-faceted approach. We leverage both in-person and online platforms to reach girls facing societal issues globally. In areas where we have a physical presence, we establish learning centers or partner with local educational institutions to provide hands-on STEM education. These centers serve as safe and supportive environments for girls to engage with our curriculum and receive mentorship. We have also developed an online learning platform that allows them to access our STEM curriculum from anywhere in the world. This digital platform includes interactive modules, video lessons, quizzes, and mentorship resources, enabling girls to learn at their own pace and connect with mentors remotely. The value proposition for the girls is evident. They gain access to quality STEM education, mentorship, and entrepreneurship training, empowering them to develop crucial skills for their personal and professional growth. They are equipped with the knowledge and tools to overcome societal challenges and pursue fulfilling careers in STEM fields or even establish their own ventures. The communities and societies benefit from our business model by creating a pipeline of confident, resilient, and resourceful female leaders. As these girls grow into successful entrepreneurs and leaders, they become role models for their peers and inspire future generations of female entrepreneurs. Our approach challenges gender stereotypes and contributes to a more inclusive and equitable society. In terms of revenue generation, we adopt a diversified approach. We seek funding through partnerships, grants, and sponsorships from organizations that align with our mission and values. This may include collaborations with corporations, foundations, government agencies, and philanthropic individuals. 

Our plan for becoming financially sustainable involves a combination of revenue streams that align with our mission and maximize our impact. While our primary focus is on creating social value, we understand the importance of generating a sustainable income to support and expand our work. Our revenue generation strategies include sustained donations and grants, selling products and services, and establishing service contracts with governments and other entities.

To begin with, we actively seek sustained donations and grants from foundations, philanthropic organizations, and individuals who share our vision and recognize the value of our work. These funds provide crucial support for our operational expenses, program development, and capacity building. We maintain strong relationships with our donors and continuously engage with them to communicate the impact of their contributions and build long-term partnerships.

Furthermore, we actively pursue service contracts with governments and other entities that require our expertise and services. These contracts can involve providing training, consulting, or implementing specific projects that align with our mission. By partnering with governments and institutions, we create mutually beneficial relationships that not only generate revenue but also allow us to extend our impact and influence on a larger scale.

As we progress, we also explore opportunities to raise investment capital from impact investors and venture philanthropists who share our vision and seek both financial returns and social impact. This capital infusion can help us scale our operations, expand our reach, and develop new programs or initiatives that further our mission. We approach potential investors who are aligned with our values and understand the long-term value of investing in social enterprises.

To ensure our long-term financial sustainability, we continuously assess and refine our revenue generation strategies. We analyze the market, identify emerging trends, and adapt our offerings to meet the evolving needs of our beneficiaries and customers. We also explore partnerships and collaborations with like-minded organizations to leverage resources, share costs, and create synergies that amplify our impact and financial stability.

In summary, our plan for financial sustainability involves a diversified approach that includes sustained donations and grants, selling products and services, establishing service contracts, and raising investment capital. By aligning our revenue streams with our mission and continuously innovating, we aim to cover our expected expenses while maximizing our social impact.

Our plan to achieve financial sustainability has already shown promising results, with several successful examples that demonstrate our ability to generate revenue and secure funding. One notable success is the receipt of several grants from prominent foundations and philanthropic organizations. For instance, we were awarded $500 from Dannys Place, an organization dedicated to promoting educational initiatives. This grant not only provided us with essential financial support but also validated the value and impact of our work. It allowed us to expand our programs, reach a larger audience, and enhance our capabilities in delivering quality education to underserved communities. We have experienced significant growth and financial support through strategic partnerships with industry-leading Fortune 500 companies such as Google, Meta (formerly Facebook), Apple, and YouTube. These collaborations have provided us with invaluable resources, including premium subscriptions, financial contributions, and advertising opportunities, which have played a vital role in our journey toward financial sustainability. One of our most impactful partnerships has been with Google, a global technology powerhouse. We have gained access to premium subscriptions and licenses to various Google tools and platforms. These resources have greatly enhanced our operational efficiency, enabling us to streamline processes, collaborate more effectively, and leverage advanced analytics and data insights to inform our decision-making. Additionally, Google's expertise and guidance have helped us optimize our digital presence and reach a wider audience, further fueling our growth. Similarly, our partnership with Meta has opened doors to new opportunities and provided us with access to their extensive suite of products and services. As a result, we have been able to leverage Meta's social media platforms to amplify our message, engage with our target audience, and attract new supporters. Additionally, Meta's support in the form of financial contributions has been instrumental in expanding our programs, developing innovative educational content, and reaching underserved communities. Apple has been a valued partner in our journey toward financial sustainability. Through our collaboration, we have received generous support in the form of grants, by sponsoring our hosting fees for our online presence. These contributions have enabled us to enhance our educational offerings, provide students with state-of-the-art learning tools, and create a seamless user experience for our beneficiaries. Furthermore, Apple's commitment to education and innovation aligns closely with our mission, making this partnership mutually beneficial and impactful. YouTube has also played a significant role in our growth and financial sustainability. By partnering with YouTube, we have gained access to their advertising platform, allowing us to reach a broader audience and raise awareness about our programs and impact. The support provided by YouTube in terms of advertising credits and promotional opportunities has significantly boosted our visibility, attracting new users, donors, and partners who share our vision of empowering individuals through education. Our partnerships have been instrumental in our growth and financial sustainability. The support we have received in the form of premium subscriptions, financial contributions, and advertising opportunities has allowed us to expand our reach, improve our offerings, and create a more impactful educational experience for our beneficiaries.